Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. An article of manufacture including a tangible, non-transitory computer-readable storage medium having instructions stored thereon for limiting control of a cargo handling system to a preselected number of devices, wherein the instructions, in response to execution by a controller of a wireless access point, cause the controller to perform operations comprising: receiving, by the controller, a system control request from a portable electronic device; determining, by the controller, a number of devices currently controlling the cargo handling system; sending, by the controller, at least one of a first control key or a control request denied message to the portable electronic device, wherein the controller is configured to send the first control key to the portable electronic device if the number of devices currently controlling the cargo handling system is fewer than a threshold number of allowed devices, and wherein the controller is configured to send the control request denied message to the portable electronic device if the number of devices currently controlling the cargo handling system is greater than or equal to the threshold number of allowed devices; resetting, by the controller, a timer to zero each time a control command including an identification key matching the first control key is received from the portable electronic device; and generating, by the controller, a second control key if the timer exceeds an inactivity threshold time.
The invention relates to a system for managing access to a cargo handling system, specifically limiting control to a predefined number of devices to enhance security and operational efficiency. The system involves a wireless access point controller that regulates access by portable electronic devices, such as smartphones or tablets, to the cargo handling system. When a device sends a control request, the controller checks the current number of devices actively controlling the system. If the number is below a set threshold, the controller sends a first control key to the requesting device, granting access. If the threshold is met or exceeded, the controller denies the request by sending a control request denied message. Once a device gains control, the controller resets an inactivity timer to zero each time a valid control command (containing an identification key matching the first control key) is received. If the timer exceeds a predefined inactivity threshold, the controller generates a second control key, effectively revoking the current device's access and requiring reauthentication. This mechanism ensures that only authorized devices can control the cargo handling system and prevents unauthorized or excessive access, improving security and operational control.
2. The article of claim 1 , wherein the operations further comprise: receiving, by the controller, the control command including the identification key from the portable electronic device; comparing, by the controller, the identification key to the first control key; and sending, by the controller, at least one of the control command or a bad key message in response to the comparison of the identification key to the first control key, wherein the controller is configured to send the control command to a component of the cargo handling system if the identification key matches the first control key, and wherein the controller is configured to send the bad key message to the portable electronic device if the identification key is different from the first control key.
This invention relates to a cargo handling system with secure control mechanisms. The system includes a controller that manages operations of the cargo handling system, such as loading or unloading cargo, based on authenticated control commands. The controller receives a control command from a portable electronic device, which includes an identification key. The controller compares this identification key to a stored first control key. If the keys match, the controller sends the control command to a component of the cargo handling system to execute the requested operation. If the keys do not match, the controller sends a bad key message to the portable electronic device, indicating an authentication failure. This ensures that only authorized devices can issue commands to the cargo handling system, enhancing security and preventing unauthorized access. The system may also include a second control key for additional security layers, where the controller may perform further comparisons or actions based on the second key. The overall system ensures that cargo handling operations are only performed when proper authentication is confirmed.
3. The article of claim 1 , wherein the operations further comprise adding, by the controller, one device to the number of devices currently controlling the cargo handling system in response to sending the first control key to the portable electronic device.
This invention relates to cargo handling systems and addresses the challenge of securely managing access and control among multiple authorized devices. The system includes a controller that manages a cargo handling system, such as a crane or conveyor, and multiple portable electronic devices authorized to control it. The controller generates a first control key and sends it to a portable electronic device, enabling that device to control the cargo handling system. The controller also maintains a count of devices currently authorized to control the system. When the first control key is sent to a portable electronic device, the controller increments this count, effectively adding the device to the authorized group. This ensures that only devices with valid control keys can operate the system, while dynamically tracking the number of active controllers. The system may also include mechanisms to revoke or update control keys, ensuring secure and flexible access management. The invention improves operational efficiency and security by allowing multiple authorized devices to control the cargo handling system while maintaining precise oversight of active controllers.
4. The article of claim 3 , wherein the operations further comprise: starting, by the controller, the timer in response to sending the first control key to the portable electronic device.
A system for managing secure access to a portable electronic device involves a controller that sends a first control key to the device to initiate a secure communication session. The controller also starts a timer upon sending the first control key, which ensures that the secure session is time-bound. The timer may be used to enforce a maximum duration for the session, after which the controller can terminate the session or require re-authentication. The system may also include a second control key sent to the device to establish a secure channel, where the first and second keys are derived from a shared secret or generated using a cryptographic protocol. The controller monitors the timer and can revoke access if the session exceeds the allowed duration or if unauthorized activity is detected. This approach enhances security by limiting the exposure window of the secure session and preventing prolonged unauthorized access. The system is particularly useful in environments where portable devices must communicate securely with external controllers, such as in enterprise networks or IoT applications. The timer mechanism ensures that even if a key is compromised, the risk is mitigated by the time-bound nature of the session.
5. The article of claim 4 , wherein the operations further comprise: subtracting, by the controller, one device from the number of devices currently controlling the cargo handling system in response to the timer exceeding the inactivity threshold time, and wherein generating the second control key voids the first control key.
This invention relates to a cargo handling system with a security feature to prevent unauthorized control. The system includes multiple devices that can control the cargo handling operations, such as loading or unloading cargo. Each device generates a control key to authorize its control over the system. The system monitors the activity of each device and includes a timer that tracks inactivity periods. If a device remains inactive for a duration exceeding a predefined inactivity threshold time, the system automatically removes that device from the list of authorized controllers. Additionally, when a new control key is generated by a device, the previously issued control key is voided, ensuring that only the most recent authorization is valid. This mechanism enhances security by dynamically managing authorized devices and preventing stale or unauthorized control keys from remaining active. The system ensures that only actively engaged devices retain control privileges, reducing the risk of unauthorized access or control conflicts.
6. The article of claim 1 , wherein the operations further comprise: receiving, by the controller, a relinquish control signal from the portable electronic device; and subtracting, by the controller, one device from the number of devices currently controlling the cargo handling system in response to receiving the relinquish control signal.
This invention relates to a cargo handling system that allows multiple portable electronic devices to control it simultaneously. The problem addressed is managing control transitions when a device relinquishes control, ensuring the system accurately tracks the number of active controllers. The system includes a controller that communicates with portable electronic devices, such as smartphones or tablets, to manage control over the cargo handling operations. The controller maintains a count of devices currently controlling the system. When a portable electronic device sends a relinquish control signal, the controller decrements the count of active controllers by one. This ensures the system remains aware of which devices are actively controlling it, preventing unauthorized or unintended control actions. The invention improves coordination in multi-device control environments, particularly in logistics or warehouse settings where multiple operators may need to manage cargo handling operations concurrently. The system dynamically adjusts control permissions based on real-time signals from the devices, enhancing operational efficiency and security.
7. The article of claim 6 , wherein the operations further comprise generating, by the controller, a new control key in response to receiving the relinquish control signal, wherein generating the new control key voids the first control key.
This invention relates to a system for managing control keys in a distributed computing environment. The problem addressed is the secure and efficient transfer of control between entities, such as users or devices, in a way that ensures only authorized parties can access or modify shared resources. The system includes a controller that generates and manages control keys, which are used to authenticate and authorize access to a resource. When a control key is no longer needed, a relinquish control signal is sent to the controller, which then generates a new control key to replace the existing one. The new control key voids the previous key, ensuring that the old key can no longer be used to access the resource. This mechanism prevents unauthorized access and ensures that control is properly transferred. The system may also include a user interface for sending the relinquish control signal and a communication interface for transmitting the new control key to authorized entities. The invention improves security by ensuring that control keys are invalidated when no longer needed, reducing the risk of unauthorized access.
8. The article of claim 7 , wherein the threshold number of allowed devices is one.
A system and method for managing network access in a wireless communication environment addresses the challenge of controlling device connectivity to prevent unauthorized or excessive access. The invention involves a network access controller that monitors and regulates the number of devices permitted to connect to a network. The controller enforces a threshold limit on the number of allowed devices, ensuring that only a predefined number of devices can establish a connection at any given time. This threshold can be dynamically adjusted based on network conditions, security policies, or administrative settings. In one embodiment, the threshold is set to one, allowing only a single device to connect at a time, which is particularly useful in scenarios requiring strict access control, such as secure environments or resource-limited networks. The system may also include authentication mechanisms to verify device eligibility before granting access. By limiting the number of connected devices, the invention enhances network security, reduces bandwidth congestion, and ensures fair resource allocation. The solution is applicable to various wireless networks, including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and cellular systems, where controlled access is essential.
9. A method for limiting control of a cargo handling system to a preselected number of devices, comprising: receiving, by a controller of a wireless access point, a system control request from a portable electronic device; determining, by the controller, a number of devices currently controlling the cargo handling system; sending, by the controller, at least one of a first control key or a control request denied message to the portable electronic device, wherein the controller is configured to send the first control key to the portable electronic device if the number of devices currently controlling the cargo handling system is fewer than a threshold number of allowed devices, and wherein the controller is configured to send the control request denied message to the portable electronic device if the number of devices currently controlling the cargo handling system is greater than or equal to the threshold number of allowed devices; resetting, by the controller, a timer to zero each time a control command including an identification key matching the first control key is received from the portable electronic device; and generating, by the controller, a second control key if the timer exceeds an inactivity threshold time.
This invention relates to wireless control of cargo handling systems, addressing the problem of unauthorized or excessive device access that could lead to conflicts or security risks. The system includes a wireless access point with a controller that manages control requests from portable electronic devices. When a device sends a control request, the controller checks the current number of devices actively controlling the system. If the count is below a predefined threshold, the controller sends a first control key to the device, granting access. If the count meets or exceeds the threshold, the controller denies the request. Once a device receives the first control key, it can send control commands that include an identification key matching the first control key. The controller resets an inactivity timer to zero each time a valid command is received. If the timer exceeds a set inactivity threshold, the controller generates a second control key, effectively revoking the previous device's access. This ensures only a limited number of devices can control the system at any time, preventing unauthorized access and maintaining operational security.
10. The method of claim 9 , further comprising: receiving, by the controller, the control command including the identification key from the portable electronic device; comparing, by the controller, the identification key to the first control key; and sending, by the controller, at least one of the control command or a bad key message in response to the comparison of the identification key to the first control key, wherein the controller is configured to send the control command to a component of the cargo handling system if the identification key matches the first control key, and wherein the controller is configured to send the bad key message to the portable electronic device if the identification key is different from the first control key.
The invention relates to a cargo handling system with secure control mechanisms. The system includes a controller that manages operations of the cargo handling system, such as loading or unloading cargo, based on commands received from a portable electronic device. To ensure secure access, the portable electronic device sends a control command that includes an identification key. The controller compares this identification key to a pre-stored first control key. If the keys match, the controller executes the control command by sending it to the appropriate component of the cargo handling system, such as a conveyor, lift, or gate. If the keys do not match, the controller sends a bad key message back to the portable electronic device, denying access. This authentication process prevents unauthorized control of the cargo handling system, ensuring only authorized users can operate it. The system enhances security by validating each command before execution, reducing the risk of unauthorized access or tampering. The portable electronic device may be a smartphone, tablet, or dedicated remote control device, and the cargo handling system may include various mechanical or automated components for managing cargo movement.
11. The method of claim 10 , further comprising adding, by the controller, one device to the number of devices currently controlling the cargo handling system in response to sending the first control key to the portable electronic device.
A system and method for managing control of a cargo handling system involves dynamically assigning control authority to multiple portable electronic devices. The cargo handling system, such as a crane or conveyor, is operated by a primary controller that distributes control keys to authorized devices. Each control key grants temporary control over the system, allowing a user to operate it via their portable device. The system ensures only one device has active control at a time, preventing conflicts. If the primary controller sends a control key to a portable device, it may also add that device to the list of authorized controllers, expanding the pool of potential operators. This approach enhances flexibility in cargo handling operations, particularly in environments where multiple personnel may need to take turns operating the system. The method includes verifying device authentication, managing key distribution, and ensuring seamless handover of control between devices. The system may also include safety mechanisms to prevent unauthorized access or accidental control conflicts.
12. The method of claim 9 , further comprising: starting, by the controller, the timer in response to sending the first control key to the portable electronic device.
A method for managing secure communication between a controller and a portable electronic device involves establishing a secure communication channel and exchanging cryptographic keys. The method includes generating a first control key at the controller, sending the first control key to the portable electronic device, and starting a timer at the controller in response to sending the first control key. The timer is used to monitor the duration of the secure communication session. The method also involves receiving a second control key from the portable electronic device and verifying the second control key to ensure secure communication. If the second control key is valid, the controller proceeds with the secure communication session. The timer ensures that the session does not exceed a predefined duration, enhancing security by limiting exposure to potential attacks. This method is particularly useful in environments where secure, time-bound communication is required, such as financial transactions or access control systems. The timer mechanism adds an additional layer of security by automatically terminating the session if the portable electronic device fails to respond within the allowed timeframe.
13. The method of claim 12 , further comprising: subtracting, by the controller, one device from the number of devices currently controlling the cargo handling system in response to the timer exceeding the inactivity threshold time wherein generating the second control key voids the first control key.
This invention relates to a cargo handling system with a security mechanism for controlling access to the system. The problem addressed is ensuring secure and authorized control of the cargo handling system, particularly when multiple devices may attempt to control it simultaneously. The system includes a controller that manages access by generating and validating control keys for devices seeking to operate the system. Each device must possess a valid control key to interact with the cargo handling system. The controller monitors device activity and enforces security measures when inactivity is detected. The method involves generating a first control key for a device to control the cargo handling system. If the device remains inactive for a period exceeding an inactivity threshold time, the controller subtracts one device from the number of devices currently authorized to control the system. This action is triggered by generating a second control key, which voids the first control key, thereby revoking the inactive device's access. The system ensures that only active and authorized devices retain control privileges, enhancing security and preventing unauthorized access. The method may also include additional steps such as generating the first control key based on a unique identifier and a timestamp, further securing the control process. The invention aims to maintain secure and efficient operation of the cargo handling system by dynamically managing device access based on activity levels.
14. The method of claim 9 , further comprising: receiving, by the controller, a relinquish control signal from the portable electronic device; and subtracting, by the controller, one device from the number of devices currently controlling the cargo handling system in response to receiving the relinquish control signal.
A system and method for managing control of a cargo handling system, such as a conveyor or automated loading mechanism, involves multiple portable electronic devices (e.g., smartphones or tablets) that can independently control the system. Each device communicates with a central controller to request control, and the controller grants control based on predefined rules, such as priority levels or user roles. The controller tracks the number of devices currently controlling the system and adjusts this count in response to control requests or relinquish signals. When a device sends a relinquish control signal, the controller decrements the count of active controlling devices, allowing other devices to request control if needed. This ensures coordinated and secure operation of the cargo handling system by preventing unauthorized or conflicting control inputs. The method may also include authentication steps to verify the identity of the requesting device before granting control. The system is particularly useful in logistics and warehouse environments where multiple operators need to manage cargo movement efficiently.
15. The method of claim 14 , further comprising generating, by the controller, a new control key in response to receiving the relinquish control signal, wherein generating the new control key voids the first control key.
This invention relates to a system for managing control keys in a distributed control environment, such as a vehicle or industrial automation system. The problem addressed is the need to securely transfer control authority between multiple controllers while ensuring that only one controller has valid control at any time. The system includes a primary controller and at least one secondary controller, each capable of generating and managing control keys that authorize control over a shared resource, such as a vehicle or machinery. The primary controller generates a first control key and transmits it to the secondary controller, allowing the secondary controller to assume control. When the primary controller needs to regain control, it sends a relinquish control signal to the secondary controller. In response, the secondary controller generates a new control key, which automatically invalidates the first control key, ensuring that only the new key is valid. This prevents unauthorized or overlapping control, enhancing security and operational safety. The system may also include a key management module to track and validate control keys, ensuring that only authorized controllers can generate or invalidate keys. The invention improves control handoff reliability in distributed systems where multiple controllers may need to share authority over a single resource.
16. A wireless access point system for limiting control of a cargo handling system to a preselected number of devices, comprising: a controller, wherein the controller is in operable communication with a power drive unit of the cargo handling system; and a tangible, non-transitory storage medium configured to communicate with the controller, the tangible, non-transitory storage medium having instructions stored thereon that, in response to execution by the controller, cause the controller to perform operations comprising: receiving, by the controller, a system control request from a portable electronic device; determining, by the controller, a number of devices currently controlling the cargo handling system; sending, by the controller, at least one of a first control key or a control request denied message to the portable electronic device, wherein the controller is configured to send the first control key to the portable electronic device if the number of devices currently controlling the cargo handling system is fewer than a threshold number of allowed devices, and wherein the controller is configured to send the control request denied message to the portable electronic device if the number of devices currently controlling the cargo handling system is greater than or equal to the threshold number of allowed devices; resetting, by the controller, a timer to zero each time a control command including an identification key matching the first control key is received from the portable electronic device; and generating, by the controller, a second control key if the timer exceeds an inactivity threshold time.
The invention relates to a wireless access point system designed to manage control access to a cargo handling system, such as those used in logistics or warehouse environments. The system addresses the problem of unauthorized or excessive control of cargo handling equipment, which can lead to operational inefficiencies, safety hazards, or conflicts between multiple operators. The system ensures that only a preselected number of portable electronic devices, such as smartphones or tablets, can actively control the cargo handling system at any given time. The system includes a controller that communicates with the power drive unit of the cargo handling system and a storage medium containing executable instructions. When a portable electronic device sends a control request, the controller checks the current number of devices actively controlling the system. If the number is below a predefined threshold, the controller sends a first control key to the device, granting it control. If the threshold is met or exceeded, the controller sends a denial message. The controller resets an inactivity timer to zero each time it receives a valid control command from a device using the first control key. If the timer exceeds a set inactivity threshold, the controller generates a second control key, effectively revoking control from the inactive device and allowing another device to take over. This ensures that only authorized and active devices maintain control, improving safety and operational efficiency.
17. The wireless access point system of claim 16 , wherein the operations further comprise: receiving, by the controller, the control command including the identification key from the portable electronic device; comparing, by the controller, the identification key to the first control key; and sending, by the controller, at least one of the control command or a bad key message, wherein the controller is configured to send the control command to a component of the cargo handling system if the identification key matches the first control key, and wherein the controller is configured to send the bad key message to the portable electronic device if the identification key is different from the first control key.
The invention relates to a wireless access point system for secure control of cargo handling systems, addressing the need for authenticated and authorized command execution in such environments. The system includes a controller that manages communication between a portable electronic device and a cargo handling system. The controller receives a control command from the portable electronic device, which includes an identification key. The controller compares this identification key to a pre-stored first control key. If the keys match, the controller forwards the control command to the appropriate component of the cargo handling system, enabling the execution of the requested operation. If the keys do not match, the controller sends a bad key message back to the portable electronic device, denying the command and alerting the user to an authentication failure. This mechanism ensures that only authorized devices with valid identification keys can issue commands to the cargo handling system, enhancing security and preventing unauthorized access. The system operates wirelessly, allowing remote control while maintaining robust authentication protocols.
18. The wireless access point system of claim 16 , wherein the operations further comprise: starting, by the controller, the timer in response to sending the first control key to the portable electronic device.
A wireless access point system is designed to enhance security in wireless networks by managing cryptographic keys for portable electronic devices. The system includes a controller that generates and distributes control keys to devices, ensuring secure communication. The controller monitors the status of these keys and can revoke or update them as needed. In one implementation, the controller starts a timer when sending a first control key to a portable electronic device. This timer may be used to track the validity period of the key, enforce time-based access policies, or trigger key rotation. The system ensures that only authorized devices can access the network by dynamically managing key distribution and expiration. This approach improves security by reducing the risk of unauthorized access due to compromised or outdated keys. The timer mechanism allows for precise control over key lifetimes, ensuring that keys are refreshed or revoked in a timely manner. The system is particularly useful in environments where security policies require frequent key updates or where devices may move in and out of network coverage areas. By integrating timer-based key management, the system provides a robust solution for maintaining secure wireless communications.
19. The wireless access point system of claim 18 , wherein the operations further comprise: subtracting, by the controller, one device from the number of devices currently controlling the cargo handling system in response to at least one of: receiving, by the controller, a relinquish control signal from the portable electronic device; or determining, by the controller, that the timer has exceeded the inactivity threshold time.
This invention relates to a wireless access point system for managing control of a cargo handling system, addressing the challenge of securely and efficiently transferring control between multiple portable electronic devices. The system includes a controller that monitors and manages access to the cargo handling system, ensuring only authorized devices can operate it. The controller tracks the number of devices currently controlling the system and adjusts this count based on specific triggers. When a portable electronic device sends a relinquish control signal or when the controller detects inactivity exceeding a predefined threshold time, the system reduces the count of active controlling devices by one. This mechanism ensures that control is properly released, preventing unauthorized or unintended access. The system may also include a timer to monitor device inactivity, further enhancing security by automatically revoking control if a device remains idle for too long. The overall solution improves operational safety and efficiency in cargo handling by dynamically managing device access and control.
20. The wireless access point system of claim 19 , wherein generating the second control key voids the first control key.
The wireless access point system is designed to enhance security in wireless networks by dynamically managing control keys used for authentication and encryption. The system includes a wireless access point configured to generate and distribute control keys to client devices, ensuring secure communication within the network. The access point monitors network conditions and device behavior to detect potential security threats or unauthorized access attempts. When a threat is detected or a security policy change is required, the system generates a new control key to replace the existing one, thereby invalidating the old key and preventing further use. This dynamic key management process ensures that compromised keys cannot be exploited, maintaining the integrity and confidentiality of the network. The system may also include additional features such as key rotation schedules, automated key revocation, and integration with network security protocols to further strengthen security measures. By continuously updating control keys, the system mitigates risks associated with long-term key exposure and unauthorized access, providing a robust security framework for wireless networks.
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September 15, 2020
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